Polk County Department of Social Services will start implementing the NC FAST system for the Food and Nutrition Services Program (food stamps) Oct. 22.
North Carolina Families Accessing Services through Technology (NC FAST) is a program designed to improve the way the state and local Departments of Social Services implement programs. It introduces new technological tools and business practices that will enable staff to spend less time on administrative tasks.
The main goal is to provide better benefit program access and service to the people of North Carolina.
During the transition to the NC FAST system, the time it takes to complete an initial Food and Nutrition Services application will take longer. As a result, applicants may experience a longer wait time in the DSS lobby, as well as a longer interview process with the worker. Applicants are asked to be patient during this transition and to plan their schedule accordingly when they come to apply.
Once the NC FAST system is in place, clients will receive benefits in a more timely manner, caseworkers’ paperwork will be reduced, and policy changes will be implemented more efficiently and uniformly. After the transition period, application and processing time will be reduced.
For more information or questions, contact Polk County DSS at 828-894-2100.
– article submitted by Lou Parton